Disabled Mentor-on-the-Lake woman honored as Citizen of Year

Mentor-on-the-Lake Mayor John Rogers always keeps an eye out for exceptional residents who go above and beyond the call in the community.

He annually selects someone on whom to bestow the Citizen of the Year award.

The latest recipient somehow flew under his radar until a story in The News-Herald brought her to his attention.

Gayle Pritchard was featured in July for picking up litter along Andrews Road from an electrically powered chair. To do so, she employs extended pick-up grabbers used by persons with limited mobility.

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Rogers witnessed this himself after the article ran and spoke with Pritchard.

"She does this on a daily basis," he said. "She said it's one of the things she can do ... helping the community. I was impressed with that. She doesn't have to do it. It's nice that people take pride in the community and make an extra effort to try and make a difference."

So Pritchard was a natural pick for the 2012 citizen award, named for former council president Vernita Savage. Savage, who moved to Arizona in 1989, returned to the city in recent years and now serves on the Parks and Recreation Board.

"(Former Mayor) John Crocker decided to create an award in her name that basically recognized good citizenship," Rogers said. "Normal, everyday people who try to make a positive difference, and we need people like that."

Pritchard said she most frequently finds fast food wrappers and similar garbage on her outings.

"I am both humbled and honored, and give God the glory," she said in response to being chosen for the award.

The formal presentation will take place at the City Council meeting Nov. 27.